Bengals release James Harrison

James Harrison used Twitter on Thursday to thank Bengals fans. FOX19 photo

CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) -

The Bengals announced Thursday that they have released linebacker James Harrison.

The veteran linebacker and five-time Pro Bowler signed a two-year contract with Cincinnati last year after playing for the Steelers from 2002-2012. Harrison had one year left on his contract.

"It
was great for our coaches, players and fans to have James on our team last
year," Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said. "He's a player everyone looks up
to because of his ability, his accomplishments and his drive to be the best. He
helped us win a division title with his play and with the example he set.

"It's
time for us to go a different direction now with some younger guys but we
will all still reap benefits from having had James with us as a Bengal last
year."

In the 2013 season, Harrison played in 15 games (10 starts) with 30 total tackles (16 solo) and one interception.

Harrison tweeted this about his time in Cincinnati.

"Many thanks to all the @Bengals fans for your support over the last year - I had a great time in Cincinnati."